GeIL Value DDR2-1000 PC2-8000

Examination:

One of the factors that often easily distinguishes value and enthusiast/overclocking-grade system memory is whether RAM heatspreaders are utilized. However, this generalization between value and enthusiast/overclocking friendly memory can sometimes be misleading as we had seen with the Kingmax Mars DDR2-667 (KLCC28F-A8EB5) that reached CAS 3-3-3-8 timings (SPD: 5-5-5-15), and also achieved a maximum stable frequency of DDR2-850MHz without any integrated cooling devices. While present day memory heatspreaders do not serve as large a purpose as they had back when they were conceived in the RD-RAM days, they can be somewhat beneficial in assuring the maximum frequency when overclocking (as Corsair had shown in a technical demonstration, about a 3-4 MHz advantage). GeIL's Value memory does indeed use memory heatspreaders, which are brushed aluminum in the instance of their Value series. One side of the heatspreaders contains the specification while the opposing side is blank. On the informative side is a GeIL moniker in the center of the heatspreader while to the left side is a DDR2 sticker and to the right side is the holographic part sticker. This sticker contains the following information: 512MB PC2-8000, DDR2-1000, CL=5-5-5-15, GX21GB8000DC, Voltage: 2.3V, and made in Taiwan. The working voltage for the GeIL DDR2-1000 Value is 1.90V to 2.30V. These aluminum heatspreaders are attached to the PCB and ICs with thermal tape and no clips are needed. Unlike OCZ's XTC (Xtreme Thermal Convection) or other innovative heatspreaders, the GeIL heatspreader design remains relatively standard in the industry and does not utilize any innovations to prevent warm-air pockets or maximizing the airflow.

After the testing had wrapped up, we proceeded to remove the heatspreaders off the GeIL DDR2-1000MHz 512MB modules. Keep in mind, removing the heatspreaders will void the Golden Emperor International LTD lifetime warranty. The thermal tape used on the heatspreaders is relatively strong, and the 512MB modules are single-sided so take care when removing the opposite side of the heatspreader to prevent damage to the PCB. With the heatspreaders removed, the RAM ICs were printed with GeIL markings, thus not knowing the original manufacturer of these parts. The GeIL markings included AMIE0582, U549H8G0W101, and GL2L64M088BA18W. Although the RAM ICs were masked, the DDR2 PCB manufacturer was Brainpower. The PCB markings included BP MLL E186014 B62URCD 1 00.